On 12 April 2015, we announced with great sadness that Marc Naimark is no longer of this world.

As a tribute to all of Marc’s work for the LGBT sport and culture community, a Gay Games Scholarship Fund has been established in his name. Donations in Marc Naimark’s name can be made to the Marc Naimark Scholarship Fund.Proceeds from the Marc Naimark Scholarship Fund will be awarded to deserving applicants wishing to attend 2018 Gay Games 10 in Paris. Questions: email Emy Ritt.

Since Marc’s involvement with the Gay Games in 1998, we have had the privilege to witness his kindness and compassion, his brilliance and genius. Thanks to his diligence and patience, FGG and the Gay Games benefited from so many of Marc’s ideas and initiatives.

Unbeknownst to us, the ever-present kindness and compassion that was Marc’s trademark masked a tortured soul, even from his loved ones.

Although his chair at the table is now empty, as our hearts are, we know that Marc has moved onwards and upwards to a better place.

Our thoughts are with Jimmy, his partner of 10 years.

We will keep you informed of any further news and thank you for your compassion.

By now you’ve heard the buzz about the Burgh. Riverfront renewal and sunny skies make its reclaimed waterfront sparkle, while a quirky arts scene is reviving hilly old residential neighborhoods. Though not a single steel mill operates in the city today, Pittsburgh proudly embraces its industrial history along with a new tech economy. It’s where 19th-century architecture, 20th-century grit and 21st-century style merge, with intriguing results.

Pittsburgh’s growing districts

Highlighted by the Point, where the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers meet to form the Ohio River, downtown Pittsburgh is also the city’s fastest growing residential neighborhood. It’s the latest in a collection of 89 official neighborhoods whose unique charms define the city’s polyglot character. Carved into hilltops, ravines and riversides, each community has a distinct personality, but shares the same friendly vibe.

Sports, arts and recreation in Pittsburgh

Marquee names in both sports and the arts are a downtown draw. The busy Cultural District is home to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Pittsburgh Public Theater, the handsomely restored Benedum Center and dozens of smaller venues and galleries. The District is a five-minute stroll across the city’s iconic golden bridges from the homes of the Pirates (Major League Baseball) and Steelers (National Football League) on the city’s North Shore. The best way to see the sights: rent a kayak at downtown’s Kayak Pittsburgh and paddle the waterfront. Or borrow a two-wheeler from Pittsburgh Bike Share to pedal along 13 miles of shoreline trail or explore local neighborhoods.

Experience Pittsburgh’s East End

The city’s East End acts as Pittsburgh’s second downtown for two reasons: theUniversity of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University. The concentration of 40,000 undergraduate and professional students, biomedical researchers and information technology giants like Google lends this district a cool, brainy vibe and an adventurous palette.

Take Lawrenceville: this red-brick Civil War–era neighborhood is now home to the city’s chicest cocktail spots, many of which are doubling down on their prime locations along Butler Street. The owners of Cure, one of the street’s most popular bistros, have added the exotic small-plates restaurant Morcilla nearby. Piccolo Forno is branching out with Grapparia, offering Italian-accented spirits and microbrews. A few blocks away in East Liberty, Spoon, Union Pig & Chicken and BRGR pull the late-night crowd.

Pittsburgh from the sky

Want to take it all in from the top? A cable-car ride that climbs the 1,000-foot Mt. Washington—one of Pittsburgh’s famous inclines—is a must. Survey the skyline from the promenades along Grandview Avenue, then descend to the entertainment offerings at Station Square. This grand restoration of the old Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad headquarters honors the city’s hardworking past and its fun-loving present.

For your calendar

Thinking of visiting Pittsburgh this spring or summer? Here are some big events you may want to include in your trip.

The Pittsburgh Marathon (Sunday, May 3) attracts 30,000 participants to its citywide course each year, including elite runners, crazies in costumes, 5K joggers and pumped-up pets (who race on May 2).

In a town that loves fireworks—an integral part of every Pirates home stand—PyroFestis a must-see. Held at Cooper’s Lake Campground in Butler County, the two-day event starts May 22 and promises daytime and nighttime productions from around the world. The general admission price of $23 doesn’t include earplugs.

The ever-evolving Three Rivers Arts Festival is a free annual two-week celebration that dances through downtown. Held this year from June 5 to 14, its events include mash-ups of emerging artists, international guest performers, jazz, juried art shows and plenty of fun.

*No returning players will be permitted to participate in Open Play, Tryouts, or Skillz Clinics without first registering and paying. Also, if you prefer to register and pay at the gym, please come early! The registration table will only be open during the early part of the night.

Divisions

If you are new to the league and don’t know much about how we do things, here is a brief description of what to expect during the first two weeks for tryouts.

The SCVL offers four levels of play: Recreational, Setter, Spiker and Power. We would like you to select the division where you would like to be placed and join us at the Greentree Sportsplex for that tryout session. During the sessions, basic skills will be observed and pick-up games will be played in order to assess your skill level and determine if you should be placed in that division or assigned to another division. If you want to play in the Recreational Division you do not need to attend the tryouts. If you are NEW to the league (haven’t played in either the Winter 2013 or Fall 2013 season) and you want to play in Setter, Spiker, or Power, or you want to CHALLENGE your rating, you must participate in try-outs.

A brief description of the SCVL divisions:

Recreational
Beginner/Novice – players who have limited experience and are learning to pass, set and hit.

Setter
Intermediate – Players know the basics and are learning/practicing advance techniques and court positioning. With each possession there is an attempt to pass, set and hit. Designated setters are typically used, and they almost always come from the front line (4-2 offense). Play is more competitive than recreational.

Spiker
Competitive play – Players have a good understanding of the game and its objectives. This level of play executes good court coverage, ball distribution and service strategies. Each team will have a number of strong hitters and a setter. Teams typically play with a 5-1 offense.

Power
Advanced Competitive play – Players at this level are able to serve with power, control and placement. On hits, players have the ability to alter direction, depth and speed of hits. The hitter may also use a dink or roll to put the ball down. Each team will have strong hitters and experienced setters. Teams typically run a 5-1 offense. Play is fast-paced. They have in depth knowledge of offensive and defensive game play, and use advanced strategies to be successful.

*No returning players will be permitted to participate in Open Play, Tryouts, or Skillz Clinics without first registering and paying. Also, if you prefer to register and pay at the gym, please come early! The registration table will only be open during the early part of the night.

Important Dates

Wed 9/3

7-9pm

Spiker Tryouts – Court 1

Spiker/Power Open Play – Courts 2 + 3

Sun 9/7 – Early Registration Deadline!

4-6pm

Power Tryouts – Court 3

Power/Spiker Open Play – Courts 1 + 2

6-8pm

Setter Tryouts – Court 3

Rec/Setter Open Play – Courts 1 + 2

Wed 9/10

7-9pm

Setter Tryouts – Court 1

Rec + Setter Open Play – Courts 2 + 3

Sun 9/14 – Registration Deadline!

4-6pm

Spiker Tryouts – Court 3

Rec + Setter Open Play – Courts 1 + 2

6-8pm

Power Tryouts – Court 3

Power/Spiker Open Play – Courts 1 +2

REGISTRATION CLOSES MIDNIGHT SEPTEMBER 14, 2014

Divisions

If you are new to the league and don’t know much about how we do things, here is a brief description of what to expect during the first two weeks for tryouts.

The SCVL offers four levels of play: Recreational, Setter, Spiker and Power. We would like you to select the division where you would like to be placed and join us at the Greentree Sportsplex for that tryout session. During the sessions, basic skills will be observed and pick-up games will be played in order to assess your skill level and determine if you should be placed in that division or assigned to another division. If you want to play in the Recreational Division you do not need to attend the tryouts. If you are NEW to the league (haven’t played in either the Winter 2013 or Fall 2013 season) and you want to play in Setter, Spiker, or Power, or you want to CHALLENGE your rating, you must participate in try-outs.

A brief description of the SCVL divisions:

RecreationalBeginner/Novice – players who have limited experience and are learning to pass, set and hit.

Setter
Intermediate – Players know the basics and are learning/practicing advance techniques and court positioning. With each possession there is an attempt to pass, set and hit. Designated setters are typically used, and they almost always come from the front line (4-2 offense). Play is more competitive than recreational.

Spiker
Competitive play – Players have a good understanding of the game and its objectives. This level of play executes good court coverage, ball distribution and service strategies. Each team will have a number of strong hitters and a setter. Teams typically play with a 5-1 offense.

Power
Advanced Competitive play – Players at this level are able to serve with power, control and placement. On hits, players have the ability to alter direction, depth and speed of hits. The hitter may also use a dink or roll to put the ball down. Each team will have strong hitters and experienced setters. Teams typically run a 5-1 offense. Play is fast-paced. They have in depth knowledge of offensive and defensive game play, and use advanced strategies to be successful.

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Tartan Yachts, Gay Games Bronze and Sailing Sponsor, wants to share a special opportunity with you.

Spectate in Style with Tartan Yachts!

Sailing is an experience unlike any other. Escaping from the confines of land, the boat becomes one with the environment, moving with the forces of nature while harnessing them for your benefit. Some sail for the ultimate in relaxation while others, like the sailors in the Games, push the limits and sail for the surge in adrenaline.

Tartan Yachts exude classic elegance and sophistication while being engineered with progressive composite technology and thoughtful touches that deliver performance and comfort.

As the presenting sponsor of the Cleveland Gay Games Rainbow Regatta, Tartan Yachts is committed to the Gay Games mission of Participation, Inclusion and Personal Best, both on and off the water.
EXCLUSIVE OPPORTUNITY to WATCH SAILING
Tartan Yachts is offering an exclusive opportunity to experience the Cleveland Gay Games Rainbow Regatta in grand fashion. “The Ultimate Tartan Experience” will include spectating, a champagne brunch, afternoon sail and afternoon cocktail reception aboard the elegant Tartan 4700 James Gang.

The Tartan 4700 takes the experience of sailing to next level. Not only is the 4700 a classic beauty exuding sophistication, she is a true performer. The afternoon of sailing included in “The Ultimate Tartan Experience” can be customized to be an exhilarating thrill, racing through the wind, or a relaxing sightseeing cruise. Either way, the fortunate honoree and guests will be able to unwind and bask in the sunlight (and luxury).

To find out how to support the Cleveland Gay Games Rainbow Regatta and for pricing options for indulging in the good life, please visit www.rainbowregatta.orgor contact Christine Corbissero at440-210-5133.

Social Talk

Connect with Tartan Yachts on social media for the latest news and information. Like Tartan Yachts on Facebook at

Be part of the Gay Games buzz on social media. Special opportunities to save, engage and connect with your fellow Gay Games participants are posted weekly. Like the 2014 Gay Games on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GayGamesCleveland and follow us onTwitter @GG9Cleveland.

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The Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh is pleased to announce our 2014 Pride in the Street headliner is the “Queen of Funk” Chaka Khan!

From the moment she burst onto the music scene in the 1970s as the 18-year-old lead singer of the multiracial band Rufus, Chaka Khan’s powerful voice and show-stopping stage presence set her apart from any other singer. During her 40-year career, Chaka has developed a vast international fan base and has performed on six continents. A singer, songwriter, producer, author, actor, philanthropist, entrepreneur and activist, she has become an international music icon who has influenced generations of artists.

Tickets go on sale at 10 AM Friday, May 9 and are $40 in advance, $50 at the gate (if available) and go on sale Friday, May 9 at 10 AM at www.deltafoundation.us/tickets. A limited number of premium pit tickets will be available for $125.00.

Under 18 permitted with a parent or guardian OVER the age of 25. Standing room only. No chairs or outside beverages permitted. Be sure to bring proper ID with you as we will feature a full service bar including wine, spirits and beer

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING RESTRICTIONS HAVE BEEN PUT IN PLACE BY THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH BUREAU OF POLICE:

– No bags of any kind over 8.5″ x 11″ x 4″- No chairs
– No outside beverages
– Proper ID will be required
– All bags and persons are subject to search
– No one under 18 will be permitted entrance without an accompanying parent or guardian over 25 years old.

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In conjunction with this year’s Pittsburgh Pride events, we’re excited to announce that a “Stride for Pride” 5K Run/1K Walk will take place on Saturday, May 31 on the North Shore. The Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh has been selected as the charity beneficiary.

It’s the inaugural year for the Stride 4 Pride event and we are so excited to be bringing a PRIDE race to Pittsburgh! Of course, this race is about supporting Pittsburgh LGBT couples, families and individuals, but this is also about COMMUNITY. Coming together as a Pittsburgh community to show our love for running, our love for equality and our love for, well, each other! JOIN US! We promise an awesome race course, fantastic vendors and a vibrant day!

PACKET PICK-UP DETAILS

Packet pick-up will be at lululemon athletica Shadyside, 5520 Walnut St, Pittsburgh, PA 15232 412.687.3592 the following days and times:

Thursday May 29th: 11:00-1:00 PM AND 6-8 PM
Friday May 30th: 6-8 PM

**REGISTRATION WILL BE AVAILABLE AT PACKET PICK-UP**
**RACE DAY REGISTRATION WILL BE AVAILABLE**

Dogs ARE allowed on the course and at the event, but please start near the back! By bringing your dog to the event, you agree that he/she is fully vaccinated and does not show signs of aggression towards people and/or other animals. By bringing your dog to the event, you take full responsibility for any and all incidents (let’s hope there are none!) **Please leave grumpy pups at home!**

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Come and play in the Pan Games 2014 and celebrate 30 years of LGBT sports in Copenhagen!

Pan Idraet, the LGBT sports club in Copenhagen (Denmark), will be hosting the Pan Games in August 28-30 this year to celebrate their anniversary. There will be a number of sports, and volleyball is included in one of them. The Pan Games will also coincide with Copenhagen Pride with a lot of activities lined up.

As an “old” SCSL & SCVL member, I would like to share this message with you and encourage you to get a team together and play in a tournament in Scandinavia!

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Finalize your plans to participate in the world’s largest INCLUSIVE multi-sport event in the world. coming to Cleveland+Akron August 9-16, 2014, and more than 10,000 participants are expected to compete and celebrate with all kinds of world-class sports, parties and events. The 2014 Gay Games presented by the Cleveland Foundation is the LAST Gay Games in North America until at least 2022, so you don’t want to miss the world’s largest LGBT party, held only once every 4 years!